How To Become a Master Gardener

🌿 Master Gardener Volunteer Application Process

Thank you for your interest in the Baldwin County Master Gardener Intern Class!
The 2026 class Interns have been selected.

If you’d like to be considered for the 2027 class, please complete the Interest Form below.

✅ Tip: Call the Baldwin County Extension Office in June to confirm your interest and placement on the waitlist.

🧑🏼‍🌾 How to Become a Master Gardener

  • Submit the Interest Form (below)
  • Look for a June invitation to attend an August info session
  • If selected, submit your application & Auburn background check
  • Start receiving program communications from our Extension Agent

📜 Program Overview & Requirements

Part I: The Application

The Alabama Master Gardener Program is a volunteer training initiative led by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Auburn University. Participants complete coursework and then give back through service.

Certification Requirements:

  • Attend all scheduled training sessions
  • Complete 50 hours of approved volunteer service
  • Sign a Memorandum of Agreement
  • Pass course assessments
  • Complete Auburn’s required background check

Master Gardeners represent Alabama Extension and may only volunteer in officially approved roles.

Examples of valid volunteer work include:

  • Educational and public outreach events
  • Support for Extension gardens and programming
  • Research-based gardening advice to the public

Volunteer work should meet these criteria:

  • Benefit the public
  • Be non-commercial
  • Be gardening/environment-related
  • Encourage learning

All accepted applicants must complete a background check through Auburn University, even if they’ve completed one for employment elsewhere.

This requirement ensures the safety of all participants and communities. Personal information is handled securely according to Auburn University policy.

📌 Frequently Asked Questions

💰 How much does the class cost?

$175.00

📅 When are classes and what’s the schedule?

 Classes start on the second Thursday of January and end the first Thursday of May

📍 Where are classes held?

At the Gulf Coast Research & Extension Center
 8300 Hwy 104, Fairhope, AL

📨 When will I know if I’m accepted?

 People will be contacted at the beginning of June to schedule an in-person meeting to answer questions and explain the program in August

👥 How many people are accepted?

We typically accept 20–25 individuals, depending on how many mentors are available that year.

🧤 What volunteer work counts?

Opportunities include educational outreach, greenhouse or garden support, public events, and other ACES-approved community service.

🔍 Will my job background check count?

 No. A separate background check through Auburn University is required for all participants.

🚗 Is transportation required?

 Yes. Participants must arrange their own transportation to weekly in-person classes and volunteer events.

📚 Are there homework or quizzes?

Yes. The course includes weekly readings and quizzes to support your learning, but it's designed to be hands-on and practical, not overwhelming.

💻 Is the course online or in person?

The program includes in-person classes paired with online coursework through Canvas, Auburn’s e-learning platform.
 You will need reliable access to an internet-capable computer.

❓ Still have questions?

call the Baldwin County Extension Office at (251) 937-0222.

📝 Submit Your Interest Form

Use the form below to be added to our interest list for future classes. We’ll notify you in June if you're selected for the interview process.

Note: Completing this form does not guarantee placement in the next class.

Name
Email
Address
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